Abstract: A tape cassette loading apparatus includes: a cassette holder which moves a tape cassette to a loaded position when the tape cassette is inserted to move the cassette holder; a lid opener, including a rotatable portion, which opens a lid of the tape cassette when the tape cassette is inserted to bring the lid into contact with the rotatable portion of the lid opener; a cam slider which locks the cassette holder to a chassis when the tape cassette is not inserted; a first protecting unit which cancels the locking of the cassette holder to the chassis by moving the cam slider when the first protecting unit is rotated by the lid of the tape cassette; and a second protecting unit which includes a first portion connected to the first protecting unit and a second portion connected to the chassis.